“We do it because we’re the only ones who understand what it’s like to know the impossible things”
Lily Allbright has been haunted all her life by visions of the future that she can’t change. When she foresees the murder of one of her dearest friends, Lily snaps into action, determined that maybe this time she can change the future she sees. To do this, she’ll need to track down a killer who is murdering mediums and clairvoyants around London.
The Fire In The Glass combines historical fiction and paranormal to weave together a tale of 1914 London. It is a well-researched story, and it has fantasy elements throughout. From what I know of that period, it seemed consistent with London of that time. When I read historical fantasys I’m looking for too much license in the plot that takes it from believable to unbelievable. I’m pleased to say I didn’t find that here. Jacquelyn Benson has done well at portraying the London of that time, while taking liberty with the story she wanted to create.
I like a good murder mystery (I confess to be quite a fan of the Kendra Donovan series by Julie McElwain). The Fire In The Glass does not disappoint on daring intrigue and investigation as the mystery of who is the murderer, and why are they killing mediums unfolds around the reader. I really enjoyed following Lily and Lord Strangford in their investigation and hunt for clues, using paranormal means as necessary.
“Stop fighting. Ask for what you want”
Lily’s character arc was the most powerful part of the book. Her insecurities and desire to push people away, especially in her developing relationships with the Refuge and Lord Strangford, were particularly powerful for me. As a reader, I like when the character is not acting as you want them to because of reasons entirely based on their backstories. It makes them seem so much more real, even if it can be frustrating to see them making mistakes! Watching Lily overcome some of her insecurity made her a more powerful heroine in her own right.
The magical system Benson chose for this book was well considered. As an avid reader and writer of Fantasy myself, I have to admit that I didn’t quite consider all the ways Lily’s foresight could be used to her advantage, and that was somewhat refreshing to read.
The Fire In The Glass is a solidly enjoyable book of thrilling suspense, intrigue and paranormal investigation against the backdrop of an historical London. I look forward to seeing if there’s more to Lily’s adventures in a further sequel.
